Instead of focusing on ghosts, Nusrat Bharucha's film depicts the fear stemming from societal ills and practices. The film highlights female foeticide and crimes against girls, but certain flaws detract from its strengths. Let's delve into the film's narrative and key aspects.
Chhorii 2 Review: Nusrat Bharucha returns with ‘Chhorii 2,’ but this time, instead of battling a terrifying ghost, she confronts societal evils and traditions. A sequel to the 2021 film ‘Chhorii,’ this installment blends horror with social commentary. Does ‘Chhorii 2’ deliver on thrills and suspense, and does it achieve its purpose? Let's find out.
The Story and Thriller Elements
‘Chhorii 2’ revolves around Sakshi (Nusrat Bharucha) and her daughter, Ishani. After her husband's murder, Sakshi seeks refuge in a village where her daughter encounters a mysterious force. The film's core element is not supernatural horror but rather the depiction of harmful traditions and practices like female foeticide and violence against girls. This message forms the backbone of the film, yet where fear was expected, the film seems to stray from its path.
Strong Points and the Film's Social Message
The film's biggest strength is its social message. The director subtly highlights female foeticide and the practice of sacrificing daughters, which persists in many villages. This message is far more impactful than the typical scares found in horror films. However, the horror elements are lacking, causing viewers to focus more on the social issues rather than the intended fear factor.
Weaknesses of the Film
The narrative suffers from several logical inconsistencies. For instance, the film doesn't clearly explain why Sakshi's daughter, Ishani, and the maidservant are allergic to sunlight, a crucial plot point. Furthermore, Sakshi's character arc is unclear; her sudden vulnerability after her husband's murder and her unexpected display of bravery lack proper explanation. These inconsistencies weaken the film's suspense.
Star Cast and Acting
Nusrat Bharucha delivers a commendable performance, though she appears relatively weaker in certain scenes, such as the well scene, where her acting lacks impact. Soha Ali Khan excels as the maidservant, her body language and dialogue delivery being particularly effective. Gashmeer Mahajani's role is simple but well-executed.
Final Verdict
If you're seeking a purely horror experience, ‘Chhorii 2’ might disappoint. However, if you're interested in exploring prevailing societal ills, this film will undoubtedly provoke thought.